Wednesday, December 15, 2010

Four Simple Yet Effective Home Remedies Against Acne


Acne treatments don't have to hurt your pockets or break the bank. There are actually acne remedies that are cheap and so familiar you're likely to find them in your pantry or fridge. While they may seem unlikely candidates for acne relief, these items are packed with skin-friendly ingredients that help clear up unsightly pimples and blemishes. Here are four of the simplest yet most effective home remedies against acne:
Home Remedy # 1: Honey
The unique properties of honey - its relative acidity, viscous texture, and the presence of bacteria-killing compounds - make it an ideal natural antiseptic. It can even kill the bacteria that cause acne. Honey is also rich in antioxidants that counter the effects of free radicals. These free radicals damage the skin and make acne scars red and inflamed. Honey also contains compounds that help heal damaged skin, get rid of dead skin cells, and promote the growth of new skin so that it appears fresh and clear. That is why it is the ingredient of choice for making homemade acne-fighting facial masks.
Home Remedy #2: Pumpkin
Pumpkin is rich in the skin vitamins A, C, and E. Vitamin A is a powerful anti-acne vitamin that helps unclog pores, reduce acne inflammation, and minimize the production of sebum or oil that causes acne. Vitamins C and E are powerful antioxidants that protect the skin from damage. They also help the skin heal and repair itself and reduce scarring caused by acne. You can get the skin-clearing goodness of pumpkin by making a facial mask from blended ripe pumpkin or by incorporating the vegetable into your daily diet.
Home Remedy #3: Oats
Oats are another great ingredient for your homemade anti-acne facial mask. It contains compounds called saponins that help remove accumulated dirt as well as soak up all the extra oil from your skin. It is also rich in antioxidants that help protect and repair the skin. It even has anti-inflammatory properties that help diminish the redness and swelling in acne as well as counter irritation. You can blend oats with honey and/or pumpkin for added exfoliation to your mask or just mix with water until it forms a paste and slather on the face.
Home Remedy #4: Yogurt
Yogurt is not just a healthy snack - it is very good for the skin too. It contains an alpha hydroxyl acid (AHA - you may have read this on the labels of some acne products) that not only helps exfoliate and regenerate the skin but also helps kill the bacteria that cause acne. Yogurt is also rich in zinc and vitamin B, skin nutrients that are essential for maintaining healthy, clear skin. They also help tighten pores and improve the overall texture of the skin. To make the most of the acne-fighting properties of yogurt, you can use the plain variety as a facial mask and eat the flavored ones during snack time.
These are just some of the most effective acne home remedies that you can whip up in your kitchen. There are other natural acne treatments you can use alongside conventional remedies for clearer, healthier skin. Although they may not be as effective against severe acne, their healthy and clear skin benefits are definitely worth a try.
About the Author

Karina Miranda is a writer for NaturalAcneTreatment.com, which offers an array of acne home remedies among other natural treatments for acne. Visit us today to learn about the benefits of a natural acne treatment. This article may be republished provided that the author's information and all active links are left intact.

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